The Depot: Rangers-Angels Live Game Blog, News, Notes And Assorted Other Stuff

Posted on July 1st, 2009 5:33pm by Evan Grant
Filed under AL West race, Live blogs, Talkin' baseball, Texas Rangers
Bottom 9th 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Total
Angels 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 0 3 7
Rangers 0 0 0 2 0 5 0 0 2 9

5:34: I’m jumping in the pool. Cannonball!

5:44: First a word of thanks to those who participated in making last night’s 343 comments a nine-inning record performance. The seemingly unbreakable 588 mark set last week was set in an extra-inning game (even though we were well above 400 by the end of nine). That said, blogging is a world of “what have you done for me lately?” So, along those lines, we’ve got plenty to talk about tonight. Let me warm you up by revisiting Marlon Byrd’s big night on Tuesday and what it may mean long-term. Second, there is the little matter of finalizing the All-Star pitching staff. Does Kevin Millwood belong? And finally, you may find the omission of Julio Borbon from the lineup for a second straight night odd; I don’t. I thought it was just a little strange to bring Borbon up in the first place for a week when the problem hasn’t been the outfield. Oh, and by the way, Frankie Francisco is the closer again.

7:05: In response to comments on the Julio Borbon story, let’s net get overwrought. In all likelihood, he will have spent six days in the majors and played once. It won’t necessarily impede his progress. And there is a message there for other minor leaguers: Get hot and you get a chance to go to the majors. Ideally, he’d play during the time he was here. It’s not worked out that way and it’s a bit of a head-scratcher, but it isn’t a disaster by any stretch.

7:13: The Rangers still haven’t finalized their rotation for the weekend series against Tampa Bay and for next week at Los Angeles. One reason: Vicente Padilla shoulder appears to be somewhat sore. Padilla, who has walked around the clubhouse with heat packs on his neck and shoulder the last couple of days, had a dip in velocity in his Monday start against the Angels. He was supposed to throw a bullpen session this afternoon, but I’ve been given no word on how that went or if it went at all. The Rangers could potentially push Padilla back from Saturday’s start into the Los Angeles series if a couple of extra days would help. All that seems certain at this point is that RHP Tommy Hunter will pitch the series opener against Tampa Bay.

7:18: Just turned in my vote for Rangers Player of the Month for June. As far as position players go, it’s slim pickings. David Murphy (.296, 5 HR, 11 RBI, .360 OBP, .531 slugging) is really the only legit candidate from that group. Pitchers? Different story. You’ve got Kevin Millwood (4-1, 1.30 ERA), Darren O’Day (0-0, 1.54 ERA) and C.J. Wilson (1-1, 2.38 ERA and three saves). I know where my vote went. Who would get yours?

7:30: Heard some talk on the radio the last two nights on various Rangers post-game shows urging the Rangers to be more aggressive on the bases like the Angels. Look, I like the way the Angels play, but they do run into their share of outs. The double play in the second inning that ended up going 1-6-5-4 to get Vladimir Guerrero and Juan Rivera is a perfect example.

8:19: An example of why Hank Blalock still has value. He can occasionally still hit the homer. His one-out shut to right center gives Rangers the lead. And the Rangers added another run in the inning.

8:47: Mentioned before that Marlon Byrd is doing a good job of carrying the club offensively the last couple of games. Well, he made a shoe-tops catch on Monday that would have been far more significant if the Rangers hadn’t lost 5-2. Just now, he slid to catch Maicer Izturis’ liner to center and turn it into an inning-ending double play. Angels were running all over the place, nobody paying attention to what actually took place in the field. That is manager Mike Scioscia’s way. It is the downside to constantly being aggressive on the bases.

8:53: OK, Julio Borbon fans. He’s moved on deck to hit for Nelson Cruz. Muscle pull?

8:58: Stiff lower back for Nelson Cruz.

8:59: And there is your Julio Borbon, staying back on a change, singling through a drawn in infield and using what manager Ron Washington called “electrifying” speed to go to second on the throw. See, this is why it’s impossible to get too upset too quickly with baseball. You never know what’s going to happen. People upset about Blalock starting and Borbon not and both are contributing to Rangers lead here.

9:10: Best inning in more than a month for Rangers. A leadoff walk, reaching on an opponent’s mistake (a wild third strike), a two-out, run-scoring hit, taking an extra base. See: Smart ball isn’t necessarily small ball. Make that two two-out, run-scoring hits.

9:25: Ron Washington used C.J. Wilson and Frank Francisco in a game the Rangers led by six runs in the eighth inning last night. After throwing 27 pitches last night, Wilson is going to be severly limited. Francisco threw nine, so he should be fine to pitch the ninth. But this is a reminder of the danger you run into when you use your top relievers in non-save situations. You run the risk of having them at less-than-optimum effectiveness when you most need them.’

9:31: Looks like somebody missed a hit-and-run sign or didn’t execute. Break for Rangers.

10:15: And now, I ask this: Closer controversy?

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289 Comments to “The Depot: Rangers-Angels Live Game Blog, News, Notes And Assorted Other Stuff”
  • Rangers Fan @ July 1st, 2009 at 5:59 pm

    I’m already peeved at the Rangers and the game hasn’t even started. Why bring Borbon up and sit him? Why are you sitting Andrus after last night? Why is Murphy batting 3rd? Has Francisco really proved he’s back 100% and healthy? And for those who blame none of the decision making on Nolan, are wrong. If he wanted it done differently, it would be done differently.

  • jcouch @ July 1st, 2009 at 6:31 pm

    F U WASH… I WAS A FAN BUT NOW U GO AND DO SOMETHING IGNORANT LIKE THIS… IF YOUR ARE GOING TO BRING HIS ASS UP THEN PLAY HIM>>> WASH STA THERE AND LIED ABT GOING TO PLAY BORBON

  • michigan mike @ July 1st, 2009 at 6:34 pm

    @jcouch

    Language NOT appreciated!! This is not junior high text messaging. Clean it up please!!!

  • jcouch @ July 1st, 2009 at 6:39 pm

    F out of here dude… sorry, generic youth minister lol

  • Leemer in Austin @ July 1st, 2009 at 6:53 pm

    Off to a rousing start! Seriously, though, there are plenty of boards out there where that kind of message is met with applause. Here, however, I’d like to think we are a little more respectful and high-minded. All Mike did was beat Evan to the punch.

    Now pass me a Keystone and bring on the game…

  • David in Cleburne @ July 1st, 2009 at 6:54 pm

    @jcouch:

    Naw, Michigan Mike is probably not a generic youth minister. Just an adult.

    God, I hate trolls.

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 6:58 pm

    Bit strange to pin so many hopes on a light-hitting CF, isn’t it? I don’t really care one way or another if Borbon was called up or not, whether he sits on the bench or plays, or whether he stays or gets sent back down. He just isn’t that important all things considered.

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:00 pm

    One thing has been on my mind and that’s the frequent lineup shuffling. I haven’t paid such close attention to other teams’ lineups, but I wonder if this “different order every day” is a common practice? Just in slumps? Is there any merit to plugging the guys in their ‘best’ spot and letting them play more than 1 or 2 games there?

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:01 pm

    @The Beer Guy – its beginning to look like that call up was the equivalent of the Padilla release. A message to Jones and Blalock. Jones responded last night. Let’s see if Dumb Dumb does tonight.

    Talk to your girl today?

  • TD @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:01 pm

    I am at the game…..good luck to everyone in breaking baseballs untouchable record….I just call it “344″…..GO RANGERS!!!

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:02 pm

    @the beer guy – not this common. These are desparate (warranted) attempts to shake this dang thing up. The tweak vs. last night is b/c Blalock is starting instead of jones. I think they have finally figured out that hank doesn’t do well in the cleanup spot.

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:03 pm

    @Jack Daddy: Good point, that could be it, or at least the effect of it if not the rationale. No, haven’t talked to her today! Maybe later ;)

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:05 pm

    Also, correct me if I’m wrong, a manager doesn’t call up anyone from the minors. That’s a front office/GM decision. I’m sure the manager could have a voice in the process, but it could also be that Wash not playing Borbon is a reflection that he wasn’t on board with the move. Just speculating.

  • DallasManUFan @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:05 pm

    I

  • michigan mike @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:05 pm

    No minister of any sort. Just a 54-year old guy who loves the Rangers and appreciates both the serious fan base and Evan’s style of information.

    I have 32 years of being a college professor under my belt and I have heard every word in the book. There is a time and a place….this is not it. Take a hint by looking at the quality of the post.

  • jcouch @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:08 pm

    I hate gay fans like the Rangers… we sit around and accept losing and ignorance from the manager… we don’t show up to the ballpark when we are battling for a division title be its too hot… bless your soul… you guys have a loser mentality… u think BOS and NY fans are nice… hell no… turn the pressure up on their ass… BOO them off of the field and let the manager hear it when he messes with YOUR TEAM and it’s future… I’ve said it b4 and I will say it again… RANGERS FANS SUCK… I went into Yankee stadium and cheered my heart out when something right and let the Rangers hear when they made a stupid play and you better believe I heard about it from Yankee fans bc I was in there house… but see you guys will let the LAD, NYY and BOS fans come into YOUR HOUSE and cheer louder than you and Ranger fans won’t say a thing… but God forbid I use letters like F U or ASS… your internet sensibilities are offended… how about being offended by what goes out on the field…

  • declan @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:09 pm

    @EG: does the front office and the field manager go thru any kind of process on expectations before a player is called up?

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:10 pm

    Please no more “light delays”!

  • DallasManUFan @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:14 pm

    jcouch –

    Do I need to point out the irony in you sitting around complaining about Ranger fans sitting around and complaining about the Rangers?

  • scooper @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:15 pm

    @jcouch: if we are gay and sissy and suck, why are you even here?

  • adiosmofo @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:17 pm

    I doubt jcouch gets the subtleties of anything.

  • scooper @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:17 pm

    good night, evan!

  • DallasManUFan @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:19 pm

    Am I the only baseball nerd that’s PIP the Rangers and the AA All-Star Game?

  • Evan Grant @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:20 pm

    @scooper: Please stick around. We don’t want to lose you or anyone else.

    @jcouch: Let’s tone it down a bit. Understand you are frustrated, but as I mentioned in the blog, this is a one-week callup. Sure it doesn’t make any sense and I invite you to rant all you want, but one thing most folks here try to steer away from is name-calling.

  • Evan Grant @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:20 pm

    7:18: Just turned in my vote for Rangers Player of the Month for June. As far as position players go, it’s slim pickings. David Murphy (.296, 5 HR, 11 RBI, .360 OBP, .531 slugging) is really the only legit candidate from that group. Pitchers? Different story. You’ve got Kevin Millwood (4-1, 1.30 ERA), Darren O’Day (0-0, 1.54 ERA) and C.J. Wilson (1-1, 2.38 ERA and three saves). I know where my vote went. Who would get yours?

  • adiosmofo @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:22 pm

    Gotta be Millwood, but O’Day has been an amazing find

  • Evan Grant @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:22 pm

    @declan: There is always good conversation between manager and GM here before a move is made. But ultimately it’s the GM’s call. If Jon Daniels thinks one way and Ron Washington thinks another, sometimes the GM will give in to the manager; sometimes he won’t.

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:22 pm

    @Evan: Definitely gotta be Millwood for my vote!

  • DallasManUFan @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:23 pm

    @Evan – Murph (you have to pick someone) and Millwood (I just prefer starters to relievers as a tie-breaker)

  • declan @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:24 pm

    does Vlad move in person as slow and robotically as he does on tv?

  • DallasManUFan @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:25 pm

    When Vlad runs, or moves for that matter, I hurt. He looks like a 90 year-old man out there…

  • Brett in SD @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:25 pm

    I agree, the Borbon situation is odd. It’s not like the Rangers weren’t aware, at the time they called Borbon up, that:

    1) Hamilton’s return was imminent, and

    2) they were going to face Saunders, Weaver, Kazmir and David Price.

    The Rangers don’t seem to mind putting rookies into big game situations (I believe D. Holland made his first MLB appearance out of the bullpen with the bases loaded), so I can’t really figure out what’s going on with his playing time. Seems like they should have either sent him back down yesterday or waited to call him up when they weren’t going to face 4 LHP starters in five games, if they didn’t intend to play him against LHP’s.

  • scooper @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:26 pm

    @evan: we kicked butt last night (except the 9th which I have blocked from my memory), I am in a good mood, and I want to enjoy the game. I’ll be back later.

  • DallasManUFan @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:27 pm

    Nice defensive execution.

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:28 pm

    Hah! Nice DP!!

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:29 pm

    That’s why Millwood’s reflex to grab at those balls is not always a bad thing!

  • DallasManUFan @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:37 pm

    “That’s why Millwood’s reflex to grab at those balls is not always a bad thing!”

    That’s what she said…

    Sorry. I miss “The Office”

  • Evan Grant @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:41 pm

    @Brett: I’m not sure about the latter two. I don’t know if Tampa Bay’s rotation was set for the weekend on Sunday night when the team made the decision. But even nitpicking on that one item, I do agree that the move was odd.

    If calling up a stud prospect for five days and playing him only once in that span is the worst roster move the Rangers make this year, it will be a pretty good year. He gets a five-day peak at the big leagues. No long-term harm done, just some frustrated fans who would have liked to see more of him. But I’ll ask this: If Rangers win tonight and Friday, will anybody still be upset at the lack of playing time for Borbon? It will remain a head-scratching move, but not a costly one.

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:43 pm

    lol@DallasManUFan

  • Ranger Fan @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:43 pm

    I’m more upset that Elvis isn’t playing tonight. If you want a player to grow (which is what this season is about) you have to play him in big situations. Not to mention we need his defense, patience, and speed tonight.

  • Ranger Fan Willis @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:53 pm

    Hey guys, gonna be a tough one tonight I have a feeling.

  • Ryans Dad @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:58 pm

    Greetings from the Home Run porch where little Ryan is watching his first Ranger game. Wish Mom and me luck.

  • JustSaying @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:59 pm

    i actually am pissed every time i see them take elvis and put a “coach” in his spot…..if he was good enough to move “our” golden glove off third then he’s good enough to play every day……yes “omar” is not “our” golden glove player nor does he bring anything to our future…….great guy….hire him as a coach and stop wasting our youth on him……

  • Scottus @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:59 pm

    Loved the so called “double play.” That throw by Michael Young to get Rivera was perfect! All Kinsler had to do was put his glove on the ground. Young threw it to the right side of the bag right on time. Nice to enjoy those kinds of plays. BUT, the best part was to beat the Angels at their aggressive game. Lets see if we can do that for the whole game now too.

  • adiosmofo @ July 1st, 2009 at 7:59 pm

    Quiet night. Even TAG’s not saying much

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:01 pm

    This is shaping up like the May game. Milly needs to be the man.

    @Evan – can we skip an offensive mvp? Re/ pitching, I LOVE what CJ and O’Day did, but it’s Milly in a run-away. The guy was nails. Broke up 2 (i think) losing streaks when a win was a must.

  • Ranger Fan Willis @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:01 pm

    @Ryans Dad: Hope you fare better than I did when we took my 18 month old son to a KC game this year. He lasted 4 innings, and we missed the walk off MY hit…

  • JustSaying @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:01 pm

    omar should be our quintessential “bench” player who comes off the bench to situational hit or bunt since NOBODY except elvis and murphy seem to understand situational hitting…….

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:03 pm

    Have fun Ryan’s Dad. My 7 year old is addicted to the games. The 3.5 year old does his very best. I spent two innings Sunday night crouched over him in the bathroom at the Ballpark, holding him on the john while he went “poop” (his words, not mine). Good times!

  • Ranger Fan @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:04 pm

    Is there any reason Wash through out there to play Omar other than “I wanted to get him some time”

  • Mike in Reno @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:06 pm

    @Ryans Dad…great job! I’ve taken all four of mine to their first Ranger game. Soak it up and take lots of pics.

  • Scottus @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:11 pm

    Far be it from me to criticize Michael Young at the plate or his career results, but boy he stands far off the plate. And the pitchers know it too. They do almost nothing but target the outside corner.

  • Scottus @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:12 pm

    Hey come on Jack Daddy, keep it clean or we’ll have to throw you out in the street with JCouch… ;)

  • adiosmofo @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:12 pm

    weaver’s reaction was priceless

  • Ranger Fan Willis @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:13 pm

    The Hammer!!

  • Leemer in Austin @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:13 pm

    Re: Elvis sitting

    I, too, do not enjoy the nights of Andrus not starting. However, I also felt that way last year when Hamilton sat, or in years past when (name the player) did not start. Guys need a night off every now and then. Granted, it is frustrating when it comes right after a stellar performance…

    Anyone have career numbers of Vizquel against Weaver?

  • Scottus @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:14 pm

    @ Evan, I agree with JackDaddy. Its Millwood in a walk (pun intended).

  • adiosmofo @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:17 pm

    good on him. can’t remember the last time CD had a RBI via a base hit

  • Ranger Fan Willis @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:17 pm

    Crush

  • wes @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:18 pm

    huge SB by cruz

  • Ranger Fan Willis @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:18 pm

    Its really nice to see a run produced by something other than a HR. Double sweet it was Crush.

  • Ranger Fan @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:19 pm

    I don’t think Elvis needs a day off. Everyday player…play everyday. Omar has been getting a game a series…

  • JustSaying @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:20 pm

    yes leemer but does he need as many nights as he gets……..

    and wouldn’t omar be a great tool as a pinch hitter in situational hitting spots?

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:20 pm

    @Leemer: Vizquel is 1 for 2 with 1 BB lifetime against Weaver, according to Yahoo sports

  • JustSaying @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:21 pm

    would arias sub as many times as omar gets? don’t think so……

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:21 pm

    Well, 1 for 4 counting tonight

  • Scottus @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:25 pm

    there’s your answer gentlemen. Wash may know what he is doing after all. Thanks Hank.

  • Ranger Fan Willis @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:29 pm

    Wow, huge strike out by Millie!!

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:30 pm

    My problem with Wash’s benching Elvis is the kids been in a slump had a great night last night then sits. Wash has done that a couple times with Elvis and CD and it doesn’t make sense.

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:31 pm

    Hamilton 0-3 1 strikeout so far tonight.

  • Tim Perkins @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:35 pm

    What about the assertation a couple of nights ago that Borbon was being brought up here to play?

  • Ranger Fan Willis @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:35 pm

    I don’t think we’re going to break 200 comments tonight. What gives people? Lets pick it up!!

  • Ranger Fan @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:36 pm

    Should we read anything into Hamilton struggling in AAA?

  • GhostKiller @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:38 pm

    Evan, do you know any highly regarded baseball analysts or experts that think Rudy needs to get fired?

    When I hear fellow fans talk in such a fashion it makes me crazy.

  • Evan Grant @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:40 pm

    @Ranger Fan: Not a thing. He’s not getting much to hit down there – most veterans don’t.

  • Old Tom @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:41 pm

    I think Murph deserves to be offensive player of the month, not just by default. He had some big hits when everyone else was zzzz. Pitcher has to be Millwood. What a great month he had! O’Day just seems too good to be true. How did we get him for (almost) free? And C.J. has been great.

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:41 pm

    @Rangers Fan – yep, 4 weeks of no baseball.

    First two games after the Borbon callup (which is beginning to look like a “Padilla” like message to Blalock/Jones to me) – Jones delivers yesterday and Blalock tonight.

    Boy, the Rangers are sure the tonic for Vlad the Impaler. I’ve never, in 38 years, seen anything like it. Bear down Milly.

  • Fred @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:41 pm

    Just got here.
    Tough crowd.
    I’ve liked this start-up blog because it seemed more mature and knowledgeable than the others, but tonight, it sure didn’t start off sounding very different.
    Evan already handled the Borbon question. As to juggling the line up, almost everyone has done it since Casey Stengel, depending on who’s pitching.
    Murphy hitting 3rd? Nobody’s doing it better right now.
    Blalock vs. Jones–not a shot at Jones, Weaver’s a tough RH pitcher (plus Blalock has a history of success vs. him).
    Elvis not playing–gotta get Omar a game here and there and Elvis ran his little fanny off last night (and booted a routine chance in the 9th).
    What I hate is people who follow a team to find fault with it, and have unrealistic expectations. I enjoy watching the kids develop and looking forward to tomorrow.
    By the way, Evan: Murphy and Millwood. No contest. They have been there when few were.

  • JustSaying @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:42 pm

    plus elvis has 3 inches of height on omar and that vlad hit gets caught…….sorry gold glover……..

  • Scottus @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:42 pm

    Another huge strikeout by Millwood!!!

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:44 pm

    well that’s two pretty interesting DP’s tonight.

  • Ranger Fan Willis @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:45 pm

    Wow, Rangers get lucky on bad base running.

  • JustSaying @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:45 pm

    so now it’s 2-1 with omar 2-0 with elvis….

  • Leemer in Austin @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:45 pm

    So in his career, Vizquel is a .500 hitter with an OBP of .667 versus Weaver… case closed. :)

    Again, I hate to see him sit, too. Just grasping at straws and trying to start a dialogue.

  • Ranger Fan Willis @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:46 pm

    @Fred: I concur with everything you just said.

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:47 pm

    Question – is is just me or does it seem like the % of fans wearnign jerseys and Rangers tshirts (particularly jerseys) is way higher than say 10 years ago? When did this happen? Was it overnight? Gradual? Was I just not paying attention?

    When I was in college (and even a kid) I remember people wearing hats, but that was it. Hey, I’m right there, as I have bought 2 jerseys this year, plus several t-shirts. Just curiuos.

    My thought is while this has been a nationwide trend for a while, as teams are marketing much stronger, that the trigger in Dallas was the Stars. It seems to have started there, as people started wearing the hockey sweaters, which made it acceptable and the thing to do. I’ve noticed the same thing at cowboys games – a definite increase.

    Anybody else notice this? Thoughts?

  • Fred @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:47 pm

    Good thinking, good hustle, Salty.

  • Leemer in Austin @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:47 pm

    By the way, thanks to the Beer Guy for the stat. (Originally, I had a typo and that read “Beer Gut”. Glad I caught that.)

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:49 pm

    @Fred – good wisdom.

  • Leemer in Austin @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:49 pm

    @Jack Daddy: My wife and I were married while wearing mock Blalock jerseys. Forget the BaD Radio curse…

  • Evan Grant @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:49 pm

    @All: Think you have misread my comment on voting for Rangers Player of the Month. You can choose only one pitcher or player, doesn’t matter which, but only one for the entire roster.

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:51 pm

    @Fred – where did you coach?

  • Ranger Fan Willis @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:52 pm

    Nice to see the Hammer doing something against a tough pitcher.

  • Last of the Romohicans @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:53 pm

    Wait… do what now Wash?

  • wes @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:53 pm

    @Leemer: don’t disagree at all with Omar getting as much PT as he has. I think the Rangers have created the absolute most ideal situation imaginable with the signing of Omar this year for EA’s rooking season. Elvis needs nights off not only to rest but to learn from the legend. I highly doubt that Omar playing or EA not playing has cost the Rangers a win this year.
    I will agree that it sucks that Elvis is not playing tonight coming off his performance last night, but i would imagine that it was predetermined that Omar would be playing tonight.

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:54 pm

    @Leemer – I’ve done a 180. I’m choosing positivity. I’m not going to criticize Hank anymore (in fact yesterday, I changed course and advocated him starting every day until 7.31, with Chris going down to rebuild cofidence).

    I’ve just been frustrated with him, as I think he has wasted a ton of talent.

  • Ranger Fan Willis @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:54 pm

    @Evan: Whats up with the cruz borbon switch?

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:54 pm

    They could have got Vlad at home. But they got out of the inning.

  • JustSaying @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:54 pm

    if elvis had started then you have vizquel to pinch hit…..versus borbon?

  • Last of the Romohicans @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:54 pm

    @ Evan – I didn’t misread it. You miswrote it.

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:55 pm

    @evan – Millwood in a cake walk.

    regarding Cruz – i wonder if he hurt himself on the slide on the steal.

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:56 pm

    well that was fun!!!

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:56 pm

    nice borbon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • RyanC @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:56 pm

    Cruz out with stiff lower back.

    Way to go to Borbon!

  • Ranger Fan Willis @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:56 pm

    Woo Hoo!!

  • ElvisLeather @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:56 pm

    Evan, what do you think of the fans who call for Rudy’s head?

  • Doug @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:57 pm

    That’s what I’m talking about, Julio!

  • jcouch @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:57 pm

    BORBON BABY

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:58 pm

    Woo hoo!

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:58 pm

    How many Julio’s can you name that played in the mlb? I’ll start with Julio Gotay.

  • Leemer in Austin @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:59 pm

    Things just got interesting. In a good way.

  • adiosmofo @ July 1st, 2009 at 8:59 pm

    calling homer here

  • wes @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:00 pm

    really love seeing Rangers doing the extra things to score runs (cruz SB earlier) Borbon taking the extra base on the throw

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:00 pm

    Thats great Angels looking nervous.

  • Leemer in Austin @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:00 pm

    @TCUWags: Franco, Borbon Sr., Valdez, Lugo, Cruz. I’ll stop there.

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:02 pm

    Didn’t like CD getting stepped on. 2 rbi without a homer for him though is a good night.

  • Last of the Romohicans @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:02 pm

    How many Burbon’s can you name that Mantle drank? I’ll start with Wild Turkey (… I bet this list is longer)

  • Fred @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:03 pm

    @Jack D-
    High school, in Florida–in the past century. Plus a bunch of kids stuff, in Texas, after I retired, which was even more fun (and we did pretty well).

  • JustSaying @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:04 pm

    millwood as player of the month…..it’s been all about the pitching and that’s why we’re competitive…..

  • Evan Grant @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:05 pm

    @ElvisLeather: My biggest test of a coach’s effectiveness is his ability to gain the trust of his players. Rudy has that. In triplicate. I’ve said before that no player is perfect and neither is any coach/instructor. Rudy’s strengths are communication and hitting fundamentals. His weakness is in teaching philosophy. You buy that and understand that going into the deal. As someone once said to me, he’d the equivalent of the world’s best quarterback’s coach, but not a great coordinator. He’s fabulous at what he does. Once they get to the plate, the bat is in the batters hands and its up to them to make smart decisions.

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:05 pm

    @all – by the way, the 1-2 slider that Borbon (let’s not call him julio – it doesn’t sound as good) took for ball 2 was a TERRIFIC job of hitting. That was the pitch of the game, imo.

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:08 pm

    I can’t remember the last time our offense cooked like this WITHOUT Ian having a part. Great sign.

    I LOVE admitting being wrong. Here’s hoping that Jones/Blalock continue making me look like a crap weasel.

  • Fred @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:08 pm

    1) Wes you got it right on the SS situation.
    2)@Evan -a) Is Cruz hurt?
    b) Looked liked Davis got spiked. How badly?

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:09 pm

    The July OBP is looking pretty good so far…

  • Matt Maj @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:10 pm

    Dear Lord! Clear some room back on that bandwagon! I’m back

  • JustSaying @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:10 pm

    feels like we’re punching the angels in the chest right now with rapid fire nuggies……..

  • Ranger Fan @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:10 pm

    What will Borbon’s nickname be…neither first or last rolls off the toungue!

  • Old Tom @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:10 pm

    Evan, thanks for comment on Rudy. It helps understand the situation. But then who picks up the slack on teaching philosophy (so we don’t have an epidemic of swinging wildly at pitches out of the strike zone)?

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:11 pm

    Man this is NICE – not only are we putting up runs, but we did it against a GOOD pitcher

  • wes @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:12 pm

    anyone else wathing the game on FSW having audio problems, or is my TV shot?

  • Matt Maj @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:13 pm

    Looks like our offense might have just locked K-Mill into an All-Star spot. Bout time he got some support!

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:13 pm

    This is great! Love seeing Weaver limp outta there like a scolded dog.

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:13 pm

    @evan, frankly I haven’t studied it that closely (mainly b/c I haven’t kept up too much with my fantasy teams), but based on the injury to longoria for a stretch, the slow start to Teixeira, etc., wouldn’t you say that so far Torii Hunter is the A.L. MVP?

    It appears Cabrera has faded somewhat. Bay and Youk have been good, but there #s don’t look like Hunters (plus his glove is bugs bunny silly).

  • JustSaying @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:13 pm

    maybe that’s just what hank needs……some real tough blogger love to get him back in the mix……

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:14 pm

    @Junior – particularly one that usually gives us fits (see his May start).

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:16 pm

    @JustSaying – if that’s what it takes, fine by me!! Maybe he read my rants and it turned him around (of course if he ever sees me he’ll crush me like a pretzel).

  • Evan Grant @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:16 pm

    @Fred: Repeating earlier bulletin: Cruz left with a stiff lower back.

    Also, Chris Davis appears to be fine after having his left arm stepped on. He is at first base right now.

  • Old Tom @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:16 pm

    C.J. has really earned the tough blogger love lately. Hank still has a ways to go, but there’s hope. I’m convinced he still has the talent, but has a cramp in the head muscle.

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:17 pm

    Yeah if hank gets ahold of ya, he will hit ya outta the ballpark. If you are gonna rag on anyone, rag on crush – he will swing and miss

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:17 pm

    crush – cd

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:18 pm

    Evan what happened to the field looks like there is patches everywhere.

  • Old Tom @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:18 pm

    If only one player of the month, has to be Millwood.

  • john in clearwater @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:19 pm

    Elvis not starting – just hit me he has 12 errors so far this year and we are not half way through. Sitting him every now and then probably isn’t a bad thing. I don’t think you want the kid ending the year with 35 errors.

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:20 pm

    oh jesus – come on o’day. Help us

  • Ranger Fan Willis @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:20 pm

    Craptastic…

  • Phil @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:21 pm

    Nothing, and I mean nothing, frustrates me more about our pitchers than this mess.

    Spotted a stinking SIX run lead, and then to go out there and meltdown like this.

    Drives me crazy.

    To make matters worse, it seems that every one of our pitchers is capable of the meltdown inning.

  • Becca @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:23 pm

    I’m at game! And holy awesome the 6th inning was fun.

  • Ranger Fan @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:23 pm

    Oh wash..you puzzle me again. Too bad Millwood got squeezed. Wash never does argue…

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:23 pm

    well i wouldn’t call it a melt down yet – lets see what o’day can do

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:24 pm

    CRAP!!!!!

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:24 pm

    @Phil: Every pitcher in MLB is capable of that. It happens!

    @Becca: Sweet! Did you get any foul balls hit to you yet?

  • Old Tom @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:24 pm

    Steady, everyone. Just hang on to the rails of the bandwagon. Why does the next batter have to be Guerrero? Does the way he walks remind anyone else of the Predator in the movies?

  • ElvisLeather @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:24 pm

    @Phil, I think both starting pitchers just hit the wall tonight. It’s 100 degrees.

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:25 pm

    Ok now im gettin nervous

  • Jacob @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:25 pm

    no need to panic, still up 3

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:25 pm

    @ElvisLeather lol

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:26 pm

    remember – as evan has said – that Frankie is available tonight. Right? Right?

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:27 pm

    Ok – thats not a bad walk in my opinion

  • Ranger Fan Willis @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:27 pm

    Im ok with a Vlad walk, but tying run at plate makes me nervous.

  • Phil @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:27 pm

    I hear you guys, but then maybe, instead of just letting the pitchers blow a huge lead, the manager should be quicker to recognize the situation and pull the plug.

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:28 pm

    @phil – But Millwood certainly has the capability to get out of situations like that

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:29 pm

    YES! SALTY!

  • Joshua @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:29 pm

    The other radio broadcaster, not eric nadel, is absolutely terrible. Please fire this guy!!!

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:29 pm

    WHEW now i feel a LITTLE better…. esp after those two outs

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:30 pm

    Nice way to end it. wtg Salty and O’man

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:30 pm

    @Joshua – Nadel does tend to spoil us too

  • Matt Maj @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:31 pm

    Wow are they just trying to give us this game with their retarded running?

  • Old Tom @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:32 pm

    Happy to see the end of that half-inning.

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:32 pm

    Hey they are trying to give it to us – but it doesn’t seem we want it!

  • Fred @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:32 pm

    John in my home state–I think you’ve got a point.

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:33 pm

    Yeah the Angels may be aggressive base runners, but it can certainly backfire. Has a couple times tonight, or very nearly. Not a fan of that myself…hate to run yourself out of scoring or of an inning…

  • Evan Grant @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:34 pm

    @Junior: Frank Francisco is available tonight since he threw only nine pitches yesterday. C.J. Wilson is warming to pitch the top of the eighth, but is coming off a 27-pitch outing.

  • Old Tom @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:34 pm

    Still trying to understand how O’Day was available. Didn’t he get released by two teams and then passed waivers down to us, which was what about halfway through MLB (15 teams)?

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:34 pm

    *SIGH*

  • Fred @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:35 pm

    RangersFan- Arguing balls and strikes is automatic ejection.

  • JustSaying @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:37 pm

    another example tonight of how a weak bullpen affects the manager pulling the starter…..if he had jeff zimmerman standing by then millwood leaves after the aybar hit…….just saying………..but that would require some cash on the bullpen……just dreaming…….

  • Ranger Fan @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:37 pm

    Yes I know…but a little chirping doesn’t hurt. Milwood got squeezed on several occasions tonight. I just hate to see that. Nothing about baseball bothers me more than an umpire having his own strike zone. A strike is a strike.

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:38 pm

    I wouldn’t call our bullpen weak. It’s not the best in the AL for sure, but it’s hardly weak…

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:38 pm

    CJ + back2back = trouble

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:39 pm

    @Beer Guy – i was thinking the same thing
    @DC – Frankie in the ninth

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:40 pm

    @Dc oh you mean back to back games. NM

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:42 pm

    Looks like CJ has some life on his fastball

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:42 pm

    AND the breaking ball! cool

  • Ehren @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:43 pm

    am i late???? LOL

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:44 pm

    Ump needs glasses. 3 strikes on Aybar.

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:44 pm

    @ehren better late than never

  • Ehren @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:45 pm

    we went to the texas league all star game. Kiker pitched a great 1st inning! unfortunately that’s all he pitched.

  • Matt Maj @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:45 pm

    Yeah those first three pitches on Aybar were rediculous

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:45 pm

    How accurate does anyone think the Cuervo box is?
    Way to go CJ!!!

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:46 pm

    YES!!

  • CJsAgent @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:46 pm

    now get down on your knees and pay up tom…….

  • Matt Maj @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:46 pm

    CEEJ!!! Nice job

  • Ranger Fan @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:46 pm

    WOW! 3 K’s! Way to go CJ!!

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:46 pm

    If CJ will pitch like that all the time, let him accessorize all he wants

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:46 pm

    Wow impressed with CJ tonight.

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:46 pm

    Ehren…it looked like nobody was there. How was the attendance?

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:47 pm

    @CJsAgent – will you accept an incentive laden contract?

  • Ehren @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:48 pm

    @TCU: it was actually better than some weekend games.

  • JustSaying @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:48 pm

    our 6th and 7th inning in pitching has been weak…..not 8th or 9th……but you have to get to the 8th!

  • Tom Hicks @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:48 pm

    @CJsAgent – how about CJ pay the Rangers everytime he has a BAD outing?

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:50 pm

    Show us what you got CD – and NO homer swings

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:51 pm

    Guess he didn’t hear me

  • CJsAgent @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:53 pm

    i luv all the luv………i’m just swiggly with emotion……..let’s have a cash bath……i mean cj tonite was worth 1k, 10k, 50k? ammortized over your major league career…..now that’s incentive laden……

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:53 pm

    Well CD almost had a great night. Still good with a hit and 2 rbi.

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:55 pm

    I’m making the call…

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:56 pm

    Anyone else notice Kinsler hasn’t hit since he homered last night.

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:56 pm

    almost hit the roof
    bummer

    let’s go ff

  • CJ(twitteringfromthedugout) @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:56 pm

    @tom stop by the house after the game and i’ll light your cigar with your hundred dollar bills……..

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:57 pm

    kinsler is worrying me. Does it appear to anyone else that he is constantly trying to hit the HR? Leadoff hitters need to get on BASE

  • Tom Hicks @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:58 pm

    CJ – I would pay you if i could only pay my mortgage….

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:59 pm

    @Junior i’ve said that all year.

  • Ehren @ July 1st, 2009 at 9:59 pm

    @Evan: If Cruz is out for a game or two, do you think they’ll have Julio do lead off or bat him 6th if they use him again?

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:00 pm

    Then why the H*** doesn’t WASH see that?! and put a leadoff hitter in there?

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:00 pm

    WOW!!

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:00 pm

    Dumbass Figgens……..

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:00 pm

    wow
    what was he thinking
    love the mgr’s look

  • Ehren @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:01 pm

    Chode got caught!

    @Evan: there’s your second example of aggressive base running gone wrong.

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:01 pm

    plus he was looking back over his shoulder…thank you chone

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:02 pm

    Same reason Wash said they played great monday night and he’d take that everyday.

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:03 pm

    Frankie doesn’t look himself tonight – throwing a LOT of balls

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:03 pm

    @DC – the only reason he is still manager is because the players like him – not because he is a good funamental coach

  • bertie @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:04 pm

    who’s ready to have hamilton back in the lineup??

  • Old Tom @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:05 pm

    Did one of you anti-small ball guys arrange for the Angels to put on a demo of why it’s not so great after all?

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:05 pm

    maybe go off speed

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:06 pm

    how about another DP

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:06 pm

    Hamilton 1-5 single tonight.

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:06 pm

    There is a difference in small ball and making stupid mistakes – which is what the angels have done tonight. Which hats off to the Rangers for capitalizing on them.

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:10 pm

    Ouch FF

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:10 pm

    YEAH!

  • Chris @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:12 pm

    FFFFF!!!!!!

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:12 pm

    oh no !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • Auditor @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:12 pm

    SOB!

    Pardon my french.

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:12 pm

    That HURTS……….

  • James @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:13 pm

    Rivera is freakin’ kryptonite for the Rangers

  • CB @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:13 pm

    this effing team

  • alan @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:13 pm

    wow we love to invent ways to lose games dont we

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:14 pm

    Junior…easy to say now, but I agree…ff doesn’t look right tonight. What’s his usual mph?

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:14 pm

    This ump SUCKS.

  • Ranger Fan @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:15 pm

    I have one simple question. Why? I’d like a writer to talk in tehre and ask this “Frankie has been off since he was pronounced “back”. CJ has been lights out. Clutch. Then the job just gets handed right back to Frankie. Why?”

    But alas…no one will ask. And if they do…Wash will give some bs answer.

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:15 pm

    this Angels team is like freddy from FT13th

  • alan @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:15 pm

    okay i give

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:15 pm

    well, let’s win the damn thing in the 9th

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:16 pm

    Gameday said every pitch to napoli was a strike.

  • Chris @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:17 pm

    was Frankie getting squeezed?

    And I think CJ deserves to close some this weekend.

  • JustSaying @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:17 pm

    how many pitches does he want frankie to throw? i guess that’s what happens when your bullpen is weak……you leave your starter in too long and you rely on your closer when he doesn’t have it…….

  • Old Tom @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:17 pm

    It’s good that this is a no-cussing site, but words fail me in this situation. How about #@%*!

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:18 pm

    Strike zone is ridiculous. GET SOME GLASSES UMP!

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:19 pm

    @TCU – you could tell because hitters dont usually make that much contact – i don’t think it was about his velo, but his movement

  • Auditor @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:20 pm

    Actually, this is one of those scenarios, a test per say, where you want to see the mental makeup of your team. How DO they bounce back?

    And MY gets a single…

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:20 pm

    @JustSaying – 99% of the teams will stick with closer

  • Old Tom @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:20 pm

    The second pitch to Rivera was clearly a stike. But the third one was right in the power zone.

  • Auditor @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:21 pm

    A sacrifice bunt, by the Rangers… whoa!

  • alan @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:21 pm

    okay can we be a major league team and score with a runner on second and two out or do we go to the tenth and do what we always do blow it

  • alan @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:21 pm

    one out sorry

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:22 pm

    Small BALL?!

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:22 pm

    Whew! Good eye by Marlon

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:24 pm

    let’s have a conference on the mound

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:24 pm

    BAD Eye Marlon!

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:25 pm

    Sorry Marlon, I take that back

  • Auditor @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:25 pm

    My bad, per say was suppose to be per se…. typing and watching a game…

  • Auditor @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:26 pm

    WAHOO!

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:26 pm

    WHOHOOOOO

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:26 pm

    I’ll take it HANK!!!

  • Doug Fu @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:26 pm

    HANK!!!!!!

  • DC @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:26 pm

    WOWWWWWWWWWWWWW HANK…………..

  • James @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:26 pm

    Maybe Blalock will play with a little more intensity going forward.

  • wes @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:26 pm

    how many walk off HR’s do the Rangers have this year?

  • Old Tom @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:27 pm

    Hank, all is forgiven.

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:27 pm

    How does that gut feel, Angels?

  • thirdold @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:27 pm

    Inventing new ways to win games! A win is a win.

  • JustSaying @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:27 pm

    it says something that in this month where the offense has continually left the pitching out to dry that the offense comes thru when the closer crumbles…….good team pickup……

  • DallasManUFan @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:27 pm

    I don’t know what’s more shocking…that HR or the fact that Scoscia didn’t walk Blalock to pitch to the rookie.

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:28 pm

    If hank hits a HR with one out in the bottom of the ninth and no one is there to see it, does it make a sound?

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:28 pm

    loved the way HB pointed at the ball as we was rounding first

  • alan @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:28 pm

    okay now two out I sware this team makes ur hair turn gray

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:30 pm

    and Nolan was wearing a tie all night – he’s the man!

  • Ranger Fan @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:30 pm

    I must admit…I had the Ian Kinsler celebratory phrase if anyone know what that was. HUGE WIN!!!

  • The Beer Guy @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:32 pm

    Yeah take that LA!! Woohoo!

    Good stuff, see y’all next time

  • Jack Daddy @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:32 pm

    1. Hank, this Bud’s for you. That’s why you’re a MLBer making $6MM and I’m a desk jockey kissing the a## of the man!! You shut my stupid mouth up!!
    2. DallasManUFan – bingo. What’s that tool thinking?

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:32 pm

    boy Becca saw a good one, didnt she?

  • Auditor @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:34 pm

    Hank reminds me of a modern day Harmon Killebrew.

    Honestly, I really do not know what the Rangers will do with him at season end. The best thing would be for him to get hot this month and then trade him.

  • TCUWags @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:34 pm

    Good night all. Driving to Corpus tomorrow. Gonna catch the Hooks on July 4th. Go Rangers!!!
    Blalock’s first walk off HR – wouldn’t have guessed that.

  • Junior @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:34 pm

    @Jack Daddy – he just ****y?

  • Old Tom @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:40 pm

    Evan’s three up and three down are eagerly awaited. Hank’s resurgence has to be an “up”, and Frankie’s struggles are a “down”. Borbon’s hit was great. Nice to see Davis get the hit/RBIs and wonder what the thinking is as to how he looks at the plate these days. The Angel’s playing brain-cramp is an “up”. Can you have four?

  • Ranger Fan Willis @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:43 pm

    Well guys I made the mistake of going to the living room to watch the end of the game with my wife, and had to fight through sports indiffernce, wow what an amazing win. I LOVE THE RANGERS!!!

  • Fred @ July 1st, 2009 at 10:57 pm

    Well-Francisco certainly earned that win!
    Nice to see Blalock come thru.
    Wife made me put it on pause thru dinner.

  • Fred @ July 1st, 2009 at 11:11 pm

    Fire Wash! Fire Rudy! Ump sucks.Lord, nothing ever changes with Rangers fans. Kinda embarrassing. Maybe the players need to execute.

  • Dallas Blog, Daily News, Dallas Politics, Opinion, and Commentary FrontBurner Blog D Magazine » Blog Archive » Leading Off (7/2/09) @ July 2nd, 2009 at 7:43 am

    [...] Over at InsideCorner, relive an exciting Rangers win over the first-place Angels, via Evan Grant’s live blog, or just skip to the end. Synergy!  FrontBurner® launched in March 2003, the first blog [...]

  • The Beer Guy @ July 2nd, 2009 at 10:54 am

    @Fred: Sorry, but the ump’s strike zone DID suck. Josh and TAG said the same, and proof positive could be seen on the pitch tracker. Not to say that was the sole thing to blame, but look…when something’s bad you call it out!